Best Baked Salmon
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
296 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Best Baked Salmon
Description
This recipe uses 6-ounce salmon fillets that are brought to room temperature and brushed with melted butter mixed with lemon juice. Minced garlic is sprinkled on top along with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Baking at 375°F for 12 to 15 minutes cooks the salmon through while maintaining moisture and a tender texture. The final touch of parsley and dill provides a fresh herbal contrast to the rich fish.
The flavor is a delicate balance of buttery richness, subtle acidity from lemon, and savory garlic without overwhelming the salmon's natural taste. The relatively simple seasoning allows the salmon to remain the star. The baking method avoids overcooking, which can dry fish out.
The salmon is versatile as a main course for dinners and pairs well with simple vegetable sides, grains, or salads. The balance of lemon and herbs lends itself to light dishes and can be garnished with extra lemon slices for freshness. Ideal for a straightforward baked fish presentation.
Notes advise adjusting baking time based on fillet thickness and emphasize 375°F as an effective temperature to keep salmon moist. Storage instructions include refrigeration for 3-4 days in a sealed container, and suggestions for dairy-sensitive substitutions like ghee or olive oil for brushing. Selecting an appropriate baking dish helps with even cooking.
Ingredients
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
- ½ tablespoon lemon juice plus more lemon slices for garnish
- 3 garlic minced, cloves
- salt to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- black pepper to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- 1 teaspoon parsley finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dill finely chopped
Instructions
- Brush the salmon. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let the salmon come to room temperature for 15 minutes. Mix the melted butter and lemon juice (I use the juice from ¼ slice of lemon) in a small bowl. Then, place the salmon in the baking dish and brush the butter mix all over.
- Bake the salmon. Top the salmon with the minced garlic, salt, and pepper, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Garnish and serve. Sprinkle the fresh parsley and dill on the salmon before serving.
Notes
- Baking at 375°F is effective to keep salmon moist while preventing overcooking; adjust time based on fillet thickness (12-15 minutes standard).
- Store cooked fillets in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
- Dairy-sensitive cooks can substitute ghee or lightly brush with olive oil in place of butter.
- Using a casserole pan or similar baking dish helps cook the salmon evenly.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 296 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 296kcal | 15% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Protein | 34g | 68% |
| Fat | 16g | 25% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 109mg | 36% |
| Sodium | 125mg | 5% |
| Potassium | 846mg | 18% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 247IU | 5% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 26mg | 3% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.